US Marine Corps - The Black Vault

6 Anzpbibfans Came To Conquer
RICHMOND
Admiral Turner’s first name “Richmond” came from his mother’s youngest
brother, Richmond Kelly. Why Laura Kelly’s brother was named Richmond
is not known, but it is family legend that it came from the Duke of
Richmond. The Duke was a great sympathizer and worker for the cause of
the American Colonies (and for the cause of Ireland), and an early Kelly
had received the name Richmond in his honor. This name had been carried
along.lfi
The 14th Edition of the Encyclopedia Britannica, under the heading
“Earls and Dukes of Richmond” states:
Charles, 3rd Duke of Richmond, 1734-1806 . . . In the debates on the
policy that led to the War of American Independence Richmond was a firm
supporter of the colonists. Richmond also advocated a policy of concession in
Ireland, with reference to which he originated the famous phrase ‘a union of
hearts.’ 17
Admiral Turner informed the author that his mother was a warm sup-
porter of the Irish and of their efforts for independence during the early
20th century.”
Admiral Turner’s brothers and sisters usually referred to him as “Rich”
and family letters to him carried this salutation. His boyhood letters are
signed “The Kid,” up to age 14 and then until about 1925 are either signed
“Richmond” or ‘fRich.” After that they are signed “Rich” or “Kelly.” “
The John Turner Clan and the Clinton Kelly Clan each were closely knit
clans. When Richmond Kelly Turner died, the Kelly Clan, in annual meeting
assembled, passed a proper memorial resolution, stating that it was “Fitting
and proper that the members of the Kelly Clan take note of his passing and
briefly review his life and career.”
RICHMOND KELLY TURNER
Young Turner received his grammer grade and high schooling in Cali-
fornia, mainly in Stockton, although there was a period when his father was
18Turner; Miss L. Turner.
“ Encyclopedia Britannica, 14th cd., Vol. XIX, p. 293.
n Turner.
‘9Family letters 1898-1940 (Miss L. Turner). Earliest letter dated 20 NOV. 1898 to “mar
Old Mama” (RKT then aged 13).